New Irish Pub replacing the former Jazz Company at Pleasure Island

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. -- Irish hospitality and a bit of blarney will be coming to Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort in the form of an authentic Irish pub and restaurant. Scheduled to open in summer 2005, the pub (yet to be named) will feature the very best of Irish food, flair, heritage and entertainment.

The Irish culture is known for its warmth, character and hospitality, and the new Downtown Disney pub promises to deliver an experience immersed in genuine Irish atmosphere -- from food and drink to music and entertainment.

The pub will be warm and welcoming with one-of-a-kind fixtures and furnishings -- all designed and built in Ireland by Irish craftspeople. Additional décor items include Irish antiques and bric-a-brac.

Traditional and contemporary Irish music, storytelling and dance will help create a lively social ambience and the friendly pub staff will bring Emerald Isle charm to Downtown Disney.

The restaurant's gastronomic delights will be the work of Chef Kevin Dundon, one of Ireland's best-known chefs. He will introduce a menu that blends traditional Irish fare and fresh ingredients, all with a modern flair. Chef Dundon's credits include cooking for celebrities and heads of state, overseeing deluxe international hotel cuisine, opening a premiere hotel and restaurant, and appearing in his own television series.

"We are thrilled to introduce an authentic Irish pub to Downtown Disney," said Ed Baklor, vice president of Downtown Disney. "The superior level of quality, energy and appeal that this new venue brings is a perfect compliment to Downtown Disney's lineup of world-class retail, dining and entertainment."

The pub will be owned and operated by Great Irish Pubs Florida, Inc., the Irish-owned company that previously created "Nine Fine Irishmen" at the New York-New York Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas.

"We are working extremely hard here in Ireland preparing to deliver what we believe will be the very best expression of Irish hospitality ever seen in the U.S.," said Paul Nolan, one of the establishment's co-owners. "We are extremely proud and excited to have the opportunity to bring a real slice of Ireland to Downtown Disney."

The Irish pub will occupy the building that formerly housed The Jazz Company. Pleasure Island club admission will not be required for entrance to the pub.